Juvenile Waiver
In the criminal justice system, special circumstances exist under which juvenile offenders can be tried in adult court. This process is called juvenile waiver and may be used for juvenile cases that meet certain specifications. Each state has its own criteria for juvenile cases that can be waived into adult court. Some states allow offenders who are 17 years old to be tried in adult court. In other states, the age may be as low at 11. In addition, many states have provisions that exclude some offenses, like murder, from being tried in juvenile court.
For this Discussion, examine the juvenile waiver process. Consider whether or not juveniles should be charged and sentenced as adults and circumstances that may affect your decision.